Sermons for Growth
I have listened to many sermons over the years, both in my church and online. A few years back, when I moved out on my own, I began listening to sermons through Sermon Audio*. I included the link here, because I listen mostly through my browser on my chromebook. However, I also downloaded the app on my android and enjoy taking a sermon on the go.
Why do I take the time to listen to other sermons throughout the week rather than just Sunday morning? First of all, expository preaching of the word is commanded in Scripture (1 Timothy 4:13-16 and 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – both of these are addressed to pastors specifically.) And if preaching is commanded, then an audience is necessary. Therefore, listening also is required (Proverbs 16:20 and Luke 11:28 – true blessing comes from hearing the Word of God!)
Second, I do not have such a deep knowledge and understanding of Scripture on my own that I would be capable to exposit every passage to myself. In fact, quite the opposite! I am able to learn so many things – from word origins, timeline of a book, geography, biographical information about authors or others mentioned in Scripture, the list goes on! – that I would otherwise have no resources to find or study.
Third, I actually find a lot of joy and encouragement (also exhortation and conviction!) through listening to sermons. Not only that, but I know I experience growth in my knowledge of God’s character, His Word, and my call to holiness when I listen to sermons from godly men of the Word.
If you don’t understand what expository preaching is, or why expositing the Word of God is important, check out this article on the 9Marks (Mark Dever’s ministry) website.
Now the question is . . . who do I listen too??
Aside from my pastors – Jonathan Dale (Countryside Bible Church) and Taylor Wiens (Redemeer Bible Church) – I listen to several others that I thoroughly enjoy and highly recommend.
- Paul Washer HeartCry Missionary Society
- Steven Lawson OnePassion Ministries
- John MacArthur Grace to You
- Tim Moyer Emmanuel Bible Church
I love all of these pastors/evangelists! If I had to pick one – outside of my current pastors because they automatically hold “Favorite Pastor” position – I would say Paul Washer is one of the best preachers I have ever heard. The other three come very close, but Paul Washer has such an evangelistic heart and a mind full of God’s glory and purpose that it comes through in every single sermon. I must warn you though, you cannot listen to one of his sermons and “feel good” about yourself. Paul Washer will tell it to you straight, and you better listen because your spiritual life could be at stake!
Until Next Time
I hope you can take a listen to some of these preachers! All of them can be found on Sermon Audio, or at their websites that I linked next to their names. Enjoy this lovely Monday and go read a book!
*Disclaimer: I include a link to the Sermon Audio (and other) website(s) merely because I have gained a lot of benefits from using their website and app. I receive no commissions or monetary benefits from recommending them!
